Biel is best known as the capital of Swiss watchmaking, an industry that stretches back through the generations. Indeed, Swatch, Rolex and Omega to name but a few all have their central locations here. The town, located at the east of the Lake Biel, is situated at the bottom of the Jura hills and in the heart of Switzerland’s Lake Region. With close links to other lakes including Neuchatel and Murten, sailing enthusiasts will particularly relish the opportunity to take a break in this stunning part of the world. The location is also ideal for exploring other parts of the Swiss countryside by car.

As the only town in the country in which the number of French and German speakers matches each other, Biel is strongly influenced by both cultures both in terms of lifestyle and also mentality. In terms of architecture, Biel is home to both the old and the new – the gothic architecture of the fifteenth century neatly off-setting the new areas of the town which were largely built in the nineteen twenties and thirties. In the summer, Biel is perfectly situated for idyllic sails along the lakes and waterways, with day-tripping along the Jura particularly poplar. Watersports are also especially popular, drawing visitors from far and wide within and outwith Switzerland. Be sure to take advantage of all that this exceptional part of the country has to offer